Driving can be strange around the world.
Though most traffic laws are similar around the world, geographical settings or mindsets can often play into automobile legislation. When this comes to mind, most Americans think of the speed limitless autobahn, and driving on the right side of the road in UK-associated countries. Whether you are renting a car to drive in a foreign country, or planning a long term trip abroad, be sure to heed some of the following from around the world:
- Philippines – In Manila, of the Philippines, cars with license plates ending in a 1 or 2 are not allowed on the roads on Monday, 3 and 4 are banned on Tuesday, 5 or 6 on Wednesday, and so one, between the hours of 7am and 7pm.
- Denmark – Danish police are legally required to perform the morbid tasks of checking for bodies underneath your car before driving. Also, you must keep your head lights on during all hours to distinguish your vehicle from parked cars.
- Cyprus – Perhaps one of the worst or inhumane driving laws in the world is found in Cyprus. Here, it is prohibited to drink water when behind the wheel, which can cost you a fine of up to 85 Euros.
- Switzerland – The Swiss do not like people washing their cars on Sundays (for some reason). It is also illegal to leave your keys in the car and leave the car open (okay, this is just common sense).
- Spain – In a few cities in Spain, cars must be parked on the side of the road where houses bear uneven numbers on uneven days of the month. On a related note, another law states that you must carry an extra pair of glasses while driving (you should need them to find a specific house number).
- Japan – Slippery roads aren’t the only danger faced by drivers after a rainstorm in Japan. Splashing a pedestrian can net you a $65 fine.
- Australia – Next time you hop in a taxi in Australia, ask your cabbie for a peek in the trunk. If he’s abiding by the law, you should see a bale of hay.
- Vietnam – Don’t operate under the delusion that your Canadian/American license entitles you to drive in Vietnam. Driving without the proper temporary Vietnamese license could land you in prison for up to three years.
- Turkey – Some cautious drivers choose to keep a reflective triangle, first-aid kit and fire extinguisher in their trunk. Turkish drivers have no choice; getting caught driving without them will result in a $35 fine.
- USA – In California, it is against the law to jump from a vehicle travelling at 65mph, while in Montana, if you have a sheep in the back of your vehicle, it must be chaperoned.
Some say that laws are meant to be broken, but if you neglect one of these funky rules around the world, you could be looking at some hefty fines!
